A sign asks Martin Slough Trail users to stay out of the wetlands behind the Carson Valley Inn in Minden. Robin Sarantos Photo
It curves gently through the revered Carson Valley farmlands. Frequently swift, cold streams and irrigational ditches run along the meandering, wide flat trail. Yellow-headed blackbirds sing and puff up their bright sunny colored feathered chests.
This new addition — recently opened — is a wonderful gift to not only the avid trail blazers but senior citizens who no longer hike or bike the rugged, winding high trails. Although the beautiful Martin Slough can be entered from several points, starting across Jake’s Wetland on Lucerne Street affords an interesting view of the Carson Valley Inn Wetlands while passing along on the gently, curving paths. Ducks, herons, geese and other waterfowl grace the cat tailed marsh.
Reaching the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office on Buckeye Road there is a crosswalk a little ways up where the winding path continues. A fishing pond materializes with a wonderful, new covered picnic area, bathrooms, water fountains and a floating pier. More picnic spaces are along the shoreline and children in pure delight can be seen catching gigantic tadpoles.
Passing a well-equipped farm, and just going a bit around the softly curving pathway, a narrow very cold-water stream is rushing by and then a great turquoise lake appears. Ducks are slowly discovering this lovely paradise, but dogs are already fetching master-thrown sticks from the large waterhole. It sure would make a great summer swimming spot if not specifically forbidden on the Martin Slough Trail System information sign at entry points.
Beautiful little bridges over fast moving water span sections of the trail, and the back of Carson Valley Middle School as well as the rear of the Carson Valley Museum are within sight. One can continue, crossing Gilmore Avenue, and join the older pathway up to Toler Lane.
What a wonderful way to spend an early morning or afternoon hiking this very special trail and corridor through the Valley’s wetlands, pastures and farming area. Thank you to the many people who worked to make Martin Slough such a wonderful place for all ages.
